The 2023/24 Premier League season has run its course, and despite an underwhelming campaign for Chelsea, £42.5 million summer signing Cole Palmer has been a bright shining spot, establishing himself as one of the best players in the English top flight.
Palmer has been lauded for his 22 PL goals this season, but his playmaking ability has not received enough praise.
The PL Young Player of the Season provided 11 assists in his debut league campaign with the Blues, creating 17 big chances.
Only Mohamed Salah, Bruno Fernandes, and Kevin De Bruyne created more big chances, and he had the fifth-best expected assist (xA) numbers in the league (8.75).
Palmer was the PFA Premier League Fans’ Player of the Year, Chelsea Men’s Players’ Player of the Season, and Player of the Season.
The Wythenshawe-born star finished his remarkable campaign with the most goal contributions in the PL.
Palmer was involved in 32 PL goals this season, beating Eden Hazard’s personal best for goals and assists in a league campaign for Chelsea (31).
No one has netted more than his 22 league goals in a season for Chelsea since Didier Drogba in 2009/10.
Only Drogba, Nicolas Anelka and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink have scored more in a single season for the Blues in the PL era.
Palmer’s outstanding form for the Blues has earned him a spot on Gareth Southgate’s provisional England squad for the 2024 European Championships, and there are many clamouring for the former Manchester City attacker to start.
Palmer can be the difference-maker for the Three Lions as they look to win their first European Championship this summer in Germany.
Back in West London, the Blues must build around him for next season. The incoming manager should be ready to shape the attack around Palmer.
